New ND State Program Supports Companies' Efforts to Recruit and Relocate Talent
Employers can access up to $5,000 of matching funds for each candidate to support relocation efforts thanks to a North Dakota State Grant program called ROOT (Relocation Opportunity for Outstanding Talent).
This grant aims to alleviate a significant barrier to recruiting from outside the state, helping to offset moving costs.
“In a market where job openings outnumber the people ready to fill them, recruiting from the outside is important. We have conversations all the time with HR leaders who are recruiting externally to fill roles. Programs like the ROOT Grant will give employers an additional resource that they can potentially use when selling the region. If a candidate can access support to assist in their transition, it may make moving for a new opportunity an easier decision,” said Tifanie Gelinske, Sr. VP, Workforce Development, GFMEDC.
According to the website, relocation assistance can be a highly effective tool for employers to fill in-demand jobs, especially in industries facing talent shortages. By offering financial support to cover moving expenses, companies can widen their candidate pool to include qualified workers who may otherwise be unable or unwilling to relocate due to the high costs associated with moving.
“North Dakota employers are competing on a global stage for top talent and many are interested in incentivizing workers through sign-on bonuses, relocation assistance, support for housing or child care costs, and much more. The ROOT program is designed to support employers in their effort to recruit individuals, not just to address workforce needs, but to enrich our communities, too,” said Katie Ralston Howe, Workforce Director, ND Department of Commerce.
Some guidelines include:
- Employers can access up to $5,000 of matching funds for each candidate the business is eligible for. A 1:1 match is required.
- Employers must be located and registered in North Dakota.
- Out of state candidates must be relocating to North Dakota and cannot live within 100 miles of the job site.
- Positions must be considered in-demand occupations.
- Business must include a one-year employment requirement for any position being included in the request for grant funding.
Grant applications accepted March 4 – June 30th.
Employers can access up to $5,000 of matching funds for each candidate the business is eligible for. A 1:1 match is required. An additional $500 per candidate is available if the applicant is identified in the Find the Good Life Candidate Marketplace. The additional $500 for candidates identified through the Marketplace is not subject to match.
Contact Tifanie Gelinske with questions: tgelinske@gfmedc.com
